Junk journaling is all about creativity, storytelling, and nostalgia. One of the most exciting ways to personalise your journal is by designing it around a specific historical era. Whether you love the elegance of the Victorian period, the bold energy of the Roaring ’20s, or the retro charm of the 1950s, it is fun to make a journal for your favourite era. Here are some quick and easy ideas for creating one.
Choose Your Era
Before you start, decide which historical era inspires you the most. Here are a few ideas to spark your imagination:
- Victorian Era (1837–1901): Romantic florals, lace, sepia tones, and handwritten letters.
- Roaring ’20s: Art Deco patterns, gold and black accents, jazz-inspired themes, and flapper illustrations.
- 1940s Wartime & Postwar Era: Ration cards, vintage advertisements, newspaper clippings, and patriotic colors.
- 1950s Retro: Polka dots, jukebox records, diner menus, and mid-century illustrations.
- 1970s Boho: Earthy colors, psychedelic patterns, nature themes, and vintage postcards.
Once you’ve picked your era, start gathering inspiration. Look at vintage magazines, historical photos, and even fashion from that time.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Now that you have a theme, collect materials that reflect your chosen era. Here are some ideas:
- Papers & Backgrounds: Vintage book pages, tea-stained paper, sheet music, newspaper prints, or patterned scrapbook paper that matches the time period.
- Ephemera: Postcards, old tickets, ration stamps, telegrams, handwritten letters, or receipts from that era.
- Images & Illustrations: Cut out pictures from vintage magazines or print historical images (ensure they are copyright free). Look for Art Deco designs for the 1920s or pin-up illustrations for the 1950s.
- Fabric & Textiles: Lace, burlap, velvet, or patterned fabrics that were popular in that time period.
- Embellishments: Buttons, pressed flowers, ribbons, and wax seals can add an authentic touch.
- Printables: These are fantastic if you are running out of ideas. They will usually have a combination of papers, tags, journal cards and more. Check out some of my themed printables here.
Step 3: Create the Cover
The cover sets the tone for your junk journal, so make it reflect your chosen era. Here are some ideas:
- Victorian Journal: Use a floral fabric cover with lace trim and a vintage cameo brooch.
- 1920s Journal: Try a bold Art Deco design with metallic gold accents.
- 1950s Journal: A bright polka dot or gingham pattern with a retro illustration.
- 1970s Journal: A leather or fabric cover with earthy, bohemian designs.
Consider adding a title, such as “A Glimpse Into the Past” or “Memories of the Roaring ’20s.”
Step 4: Design the Pages
Now it’s time to bring your journal to life! Use layering and textures to create an authentic vintage feel.
- Background Layers: Use tea-stained or coffee-dyed paper to give an aged look.
- Pockets & Tuck Spots: Create hidden compartments for faux telegrams, vintage photographs, or ration cards.
- Handwriting & Stamps: Write journal entries in cursive, use typewriter-style fonts, or add vintage-style rubber stamps.
- Collage & Clippings: Cut out advertisements, letters, and magazine clippings from your chosen era.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Small details will make your journal feel like a true time capsule. Consider these extras:
- Wax Seals & Stamped Designs: These give an antique, handwritten letter effect.
- Aged Edges: Distress the edges of your paper for an old-world look. Tim Holtz Distress Ink has a wide range of colours to choose from.
- Dried Flowers & Pressed Leaves: Perfect for a romantic Victorian or 1970s boho journal.
- Handwritten Notes & Quotes: Copy famous quotes, love letters, or diary entries from your chosen era.
Step 6: Personalize Your Journal
Make your journal your own by adding personal stories, memories, or reflections that connect you to the era. Write a letter as if you were living in that time or create a fictional character and tell their story through journal entries.
Creating a junk journal inspired by your favourite era is a fun and creative way to celebrate history. Whether you’re drawn to the sophistication of the Victorian era or the playful energy of the 1950s, your journal can become a beautiful keepsake that reflects the past in a deeply personal way.
What era would you love to recreate in a junk journal? Let me know in the comments below!
Happy journaling! 😊
